xxiv REPORTS OF DELEGATES. 



who was present, that the exhibition of horses was unusually good, 

 being larger in numbers and better in quality than heretofore. 



Nahum P. Brown. 



UNION. 



As delegate from this Board I attended the exhibition of the 

 Union Agricultural Society, held at Blandford, Sept. 19 and 20. 

 Arriving at the Russell station on the morning of the first day, we 

 found a gentleman waiting to take us to the fair ground. Leaving 

 the depot we at once commenced our somewhat tedious though 

 interesting ascent through an elevated country. Often we passed 

 and then repassed the rocky bed of what is evidently at times a 

 rapid torrent. Anon we neared the verge of a deep ravine, seem- 

 ingly so near that a slight accident might turn us down, down 

 helpless for hundreds of feet. Moving on between, around and 

 over the hills piled up before us, at the end of an hour's ride we 

 found ourselves on the grounds of the society, evidently on the 

 crest of the Old Bay State. 



We were soon made aware of our increased altitude by the 

 change of climate which a few hours' ride had wrought, reminding 

 us of our verdancy in leaving home without better preparation. 

 Still the weather, though cool and bracing, was all that could be 

 desired for a successful farmers' festival. 



Inquiring for our friend, E. W. Boise, we found he was not 

 unknown in that community ; for in reply we were told that Mr. 

 B. and his father owned nearly half of the town of Blandford. 



The grounds of the society contain eleven acres, inclosed by a 

 good fence, and command a view of Western Massachusetts as well 

 as portions of New York and Vermont, — a panoramic scene, exten- 

 sive, varied, beautiful. 



One of the first objects that attracted our attention was the fine 

 building recently erected by the society, two stories high, — the 

 first floor being used as a dining room and kitchen, and the upper 

 for its exhibitions. 



The forenoon was occupied in arranging the various articles and 

 animals for exhibition. At noon, dinner was served, and we queried 

 how the society could furnish so good a repast at so small a price. 



We availed ourself of the afternoon to make such examination 

 as we were able, of the different departments of the exhibition. 



First in order of excellence and extent was the collection of 

 stock. And here it was evident that the Union Society believe in 



